Recognizing the roles and contributions of the teachers of the United States in building and enhancing the civic, cultural, and economic well-being of the United States.

Madam Speaker, I rise in honor of Megan Bugg of Coal City, Illinois, who passed away in her home on Wednesday, March 9, 2022 after a seven year and three month battle with Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcorma. Megan will be greatly missed by many, but most especially her family, whom she loved dearly. Megan believed that everyone deserved the honor of dignity, respect, and kindness, and she lived her life spreading that message.

Throughout Megan's battle with childhood cancer, she maintained a positive attitude and zest for life that became an inspiration for family, friends, and many others. Although Megan was fighting her own personal battle, she made her fight about something much bigger than herself by becoming a passionate advocate for childhood cancer awareness and the need for increased funding for cancer research. She lobbied legislators for the cause and helped lead marches in- Washington, D.C. calling for increased funding for childhood cancer research. I was lucky enough to meet Megan on one of these visits and was incredibly impressed by her courage, passion, and spirit. It's no wonder she was chosen as the 2019 American Red Cross Youth Hero, one of the Morris Daily Herald ``Women of the Year'' recipients, a Joliet Herald News ``Everyday Hero'', the Grand Marshall of the Grundy County Comfest Parade, and had her efforts honored by the Illinois Legislature in House Resolution 1071. In recognition of her achievements, the Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute of Oregon is opening the ``Megan Bugg Global Rhabdomyosarcoma Research Lab'' to carry on Megan's goal of making sure no more children go through what she endured.

Without a doubt, the world feels a void in the absence of Megan's steadfast presence. As her family shared, Megan had a sense of humor that could light up the room and held a genuine Jove for all of those around her. They will remember all the lives she touched and by honoring her in this way, they can keep her spirit alive and continue to inspire others as she inspired so many.

Megan is survived by her father, mother, and sister. She is also survived by her paternal grandparents and her maternal grandparents. May the memories of her light be a comfort to her family and friends, and may we all carry her legacy forward in putting an end to childhood cancer.

Madam Speaker, in expressing my condolences, I want to take this time to also encourage the family, friends, and the community to celebrate the life of Megan Bugg--not only for her service in helping address the specific obstacles related to childhood cancer awareness, but for being a beacon of light and hope for all of those who had the opportunity to meet her. She remains an inspiration to not only her community, but to me as well.